MANILA — The Philippines has formally lifted its temporary ban on the importation of poultry and poultry products from The Netherlands, following the bilateral recognition of regionalization measures for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Department Circular No. 05, restoring market access for domestic and wild birds and their products—including poultry meat, eggs, day-old chicks, and semen—originating from designated disease-free zones.

The move comes after a technical review by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), which assessed the Dutch government’s public health controls and outbreak management. The BAI concluded that The Netherlands maintains sufficient veterinary oversight and implements measures that limit trade restrictions only to affected areas, keeping the risk of disease transmission low.

“Regionalization is a smart, science-driven safeguard that allows us to protect Philippine poultry while honoring our trade commitments,” Tiu Laurel said. “After rigorous evaluation, we are confident that The Netherlands’ veterinary controls and containment measures effectively mitigate the risks of HPAI from accredited zones.”

Import transactions will proceed under agreed terms and conditions, as well as existing Department of Agriculture rules and regulations. The circular takes effect 15 days after publication on the DA’s official website and filing with the Office of the National Administrative Register.

For local poultry stakeholders and food processors, the decision restores a key European supply source while maintaining strict border control measures.